12 Best Portable Generators – Which One Should You Get?

Regardless of whether you are getting back to nature, powering equipment at a arts and crafts fair or desire the security of having backup power, a portable generator is a valuable investment. There are plenty of portable generators to choose from, but which one should you get? Our guide will provide plenty of information to help you make an informed choice and select the best portable generator to fit your needs.

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OUR BEST CHOICE

Champion Power Equipment 75531i

The versatility and convenience of the Champion Power Equipment 75531i is pretty hard to beat where portable generators are concerned. The output levels and available outlets are comparable to or exceed that of its similarly priced competitors. It has an electric, remote starting feature that speaks to its ease of operation. This unit’s compact design and a weight that is less than its closest competition, makes it a truly portable option. Additionally, the Champion 75531i is backed by a trusted name, quality customer service and a 3 year warranty.

There are other portable generators with various price ranges, output capacities, weights and features available that are worthy of your consideration as well. We’ll take a look at the 12 best portable generators in a moment, but let’s explore some of the considerations to take into account in making the best selection for your needs before we do.

How to Choose the Best Portable Generator

The most decisive factors in selecting any item are what it will be used for and what you are willing to spend in order to have it. Let’s examine the features which add value to your choice and justify spending your money.

Power Output

Power Output

What you are using your generator for will determine the power output it needs to have. There are three power measurements you need to keep in mind: amps, volts and watts. What’s the difference?

• Amp – the rate at which an electric current flows.• Volt – the amount of pressure (like water through a hose) necessary to make one ampere flow through a conductor with a resistance of one ohm.• Watt – the amount of power (similar to horsepower) generated or needed to provide one volt-ampere of power every second.

Knowing the wattage and voltage requirements of the appliances and equipment you intend to run using your generator, as well as how many of them you can operate at the same time, is necessary in order to select a portable generator which will meet your needs.

True Portability

True Portability

Another factor to keep in mind is the true portability of the unit. If it is too heavy or bulky to carry, it really isn’t portable. Portability in heavier and bulkier models is often overcome by placing wheels or castors on the unit. The durability and functionality of those wheels in various types of terrain also become a factor in true portability. What are you willing to put up with in a portable unit?

Pollution Factor

Pollution Factor

There are really three factors relating to pollution when it comes to running a generator. Even if you’re not overly concerned about the larger environment, the irritating factor of pollution in your own environment can become an issue with some generators. Ask a couple of questions:

• How loud is this generator? The majority will run at midrange on the decibel chart between 50 dB and 70 dB (just below or above normal conversation level).

• How much exhaust is it going to put out? It should meet EPA, CARB, and CSA requirements.

Keep in mind that newer models tend not to be

Ease of Operation

Ease of Operation

No one wants to break their arm or go through the frustration of trying to get a stubborn generator started, especially critical situations. Additionally, it needs to operate without having to be tended to constantly or require constant maintenance. Here are three more factors to consider:

• Starting. Electric start vs. pull start can become a deciding factor, depending upon the health and strength of the user.

• Fuel. If the motor is a 4 stroke or 4 cycle engine, you will have to mix your fuel with oil. You also need to consider how often you will have to fuel the unit as well as fuel economy (hrs/gal).

• Maintenance. A unit that requires a lot of maintenance in order to have it ready for use might not be as valuable to you due to time commitment.

Gas vs. Solar Portable Generators

Gas vs. Solar Portable Generators

There are pros and cons to each of these types of generators. With a gas generator, you do not need any solar panels or sun in order to generate electricity. Gas generators also tend to be able to produce higher power outputs for the same dollars invested in the unit. On the other side of the coin, gas generators require gas, oil and maintenance; can be noisy, difficult to start, messy and bulky.

Solar generators are quieter and cleaner. They require solar panels, but there are a wide variety of portable panels now available. With these generators you escape a lot of the issues of bulk, starting, maintenance and adding fuel. They don’t tend to have equal power output for each dollar you spend. As solar technology increases, these will certainly outperform gas generators, but we might not be there quite yet.

One of its features is its sleek, durable design on heavy-duty, no-flat wheels. This unit provides plenty of power with options for nearly all applications. It meets or exceeds EPA and CARB requirements for emissions and noise.

The Champion 75537i is an impressive generator. It cranks out all the power you need with plenty of outlet options to choose from. It is heavy enough to put on wheels, but still lighter than some non-wheeled units. Its fuel economy and electric start capabilities are certainly pluses and it isn’t as noisy as generators in its class. It is also backed by a solid brand name and 3 year warranty.

Westinghouse WGen3600v Portable Generator

Westinghouse is certainly a trusted name in appliances and the Westinghouse WGen2600v is no exception. This unit meets the requirements of all three emissions regulation agencies.

It is constructed of durable steel with rollbars, allows plenty of outlet options for RVing or backup power applications. It is backed by a 3 year warranty as well.

Specs:

• Watts: 3600 to 4650

• Outlets: 125V, 30A, TT-30R; 125V, 30A, L5-30R; (2) 120V, 20A, 5-20R

• Weight: 104 lbs.

• Dimensions: 21.3 x 22.8 x 23.2 inches

• Starting: pull

• Fuel: 4 gallon (4 cycle)/12 hours (3 hrs/gal)

• Noise rating: Mid

This unit is a little heavy for one without wheels. It cranks out a lot of power, but it also uses quite a bit of fuel. With that said, the price, the warranty and the company name are certainly factors to take into consideration. You would not be making a horrible choice to go with this product.

The Champion 76533 Dual Fuel Portable Generator can be fueled using regular gasoline or propane. It features electric start, has a high wattage output as well as a wide variety of outlet options to choose from. It is made of durable steel and sits on large, heavy-duty, never-flat wheels to make it easy to maneuver through various types of terrains.

The fact that it runs on both regular gasoline as well as propane could be a major selling point, as is the electric start feature and the variety of outlet options. This thing is heavy and needs the wheels to be portable. Its fuel economy could be better when using gas and it pushes the upper limit of the midrange noise level. It is a Champion with a three year warranty. Meets EPA and CARB requirements.

WEN 56200i Gas Powered Portable Inverter Generator

This lighter weight unit might attract the attention and the noise level of the WEN 56200i makes it equally attractive.

It also includes an option for reducing fuel consumption, making it economical to run.

The low output harmonic distortion level is also something that will grab your attention.

Specs:

• Watts: 1600 to 2000

• Outlets: (2) 120V, 20A, 5-20R; 12V DC; 5V USB

• Weight: 48 lbs.

• Dimensions: 18 x 11 x 18 inches

• Starting: pull

• Fuel: 1 gallon (4 cycle)/6 hours

• Noise rating: Mid - 51 dB

For regular use, especially with electronic equipment that requires lower harmonic distortion, the WEN 56200i isn’t a bad choice. It is a little underpowered for RV usage. It requires you to mix your fuel and it has a pull start. It is lightweight, has a clean design, allows for fuel economy adjustment and has pretty decent fuel economy. It meets EPA and CARB requirements and is a quiet operator.

PROS

Lightweight and compact design

Excellent fuel economy

Spark arrestor for camping

CONS

Limited power and usage

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Pull start

PowerPro 56101 Gas Powered Portable Generator

The PowerPro 56101 is a light duty portable generator that you can easily carry with you when you go camping or when you set up at arts and crafts fairs. It is a very lightweight and low profile unit which meets all EPA and CARB requirements, but also includes a spark arrestor that makes it safe out in the woods. It has durable construction with a solid carrying handle and frame.

Specs:

• Watts: 900 to 1000

• Outlets: 120V, 20A, 5-20R; 12V DC

• Weight: 36 lbs.

• Dimensions: 13.5 x 12 x 14 inches

• Starting: pull

• Fuel: 1 gallon/5 hours

• Noise rating: Mid – 60 dB @ 22 ft.

For limited use, this isn’t a bad unit. It is certainly light weight enough to take anywhere and its small enough to fit in the floor board of a compact car. Its fuel economy isn’t bad and its noise rating is so, so. The biggest problem you will have with this generator is the fact that you just can’t power much with it.

DuroStar DS4000S Gas Powered Portable Generator

The heavy-duty steel design of the DuroStar DS4000S lives up to its name when it comes to durability.

This unit also includes a spark arrestor for safety as well as meeting EPA noise and emissions requirements.

Because it includes the proper power outlet, you can use the DuroStar DS4000S with your RV. Ease-pull, recoil starting is another feature on this durable machine.

Specs:

• Watts: 3300 to 4000

• Outlets: (2)-120V, 20 Amp, 5-20R; 120V, 30 Amp, L5-30

• Weight: 92.4 lbs.

• Dimensions: 17.5 x 18 x 23 inches

• Starting: pull

• Fuel: 4 gallon/8 hours (2 hrs/gal)

• Noise rating: Mid – 69 dB

For situations where you need something that is durable, this is a pretty solid unit. It is a little heavy for a non-wheeled unit, but not excessively so. It doesn’t do well where fuel economy and noise level are concerned and it lacks meeting the CARB requirements. With that said, it does crank out quite a bit of power.

Wagan EL2546 Solar e Cube 1500

If you want to get away from fossil fuels and use a portable generator that is more environmental friendly, you might consider the Wagan EL2546 Solar e-Cube.

This unit has self-contained solar panels and generates up to 1500 watts.

It is set on wheels and comes with a collapsible handle like the one on your suitcase. It can power most AC and DC equipment. It certainly exceeds any and all EPA, CARB and CSA environmental requirements for portable generators.

If you need power in a remote location, but are environmentally conscious, then this is your unit. There is no noise, exhaust or mess from oil and gasoline. It has pretty decent portability and the attached solar panels are certainly a plus.

It is limited in how it can be used. Solar generator technology, at least in portable form, is still a little behind. The price will probably scare you too.

If you are in construction or need to power a welder out in the field, this is your unit. It is a little bit bulky and heavy duty for RVing, arts and crafts and camping applications. If it wasn’t on wheels, it would take two people to carry it for any distance. Its fuel economy and noise level are not good and it does not pass CARB requirements. This unit is meant for commercial use.

Honda EU2000I Quiet 2000 Watt Portable Generator with Inverter

Another portable unit with sleek, lightweight design and sturdy construction is the Honda EU2000I. Weighing in at 48 pounds, this unit is pretty easy to carry for most setups.

It can run most appliances overnight on a single gallon of gas and is dependable. It meets or exceeds EPA and CARB requirements and operates quieter than heavier duty generators.

Specs:

• Watts: 1600 to 2000

• Outlets: (2)-120V, 20 Amp, 5-20R; 12V DC

• Weight: 45.6

• Dimensions: 12 x 21 x 19 in

• Starting: pull

• Fuel: 1 gallon/8.1 hours

• Noise rating: Mid (53 dB to 59 dB)

First of all, Super Quiet is a misnomer, though it leans toward the lower end of the midrange decibel level, it is really not a great deal quieter than other models of its kind. It does get excellent fuel economy, has a clean, compact design and can provide decent power for most common uses. It’s not a bad generator and seems to be pretty popular among users. The super quiet claim might be because the price will have you in a coma and you won’t be able to hear it.

This unit weighs in at under 55 pounds and is encased in a very portable case.

It is well put together for everyday use, provides sufficient power and outlet options for the most common applications.

Specs:

• Watts: 1700 to 2200

• Outlets: (2)-120V, 20 Amp, 5-20R; 12V DC; dual 5V USB adapter

• Weight: 54.6 lbs.

• Dimensions: 19.9 x 14.4 x 22.4 inches

• Starting: pull

• Fuel: 1 gallon/8 hours

• Noise rating: Mid (59 dB @ 23 ft)

This is an attractive model backed by a brand name that certainly knows how to build motors. It is a little heavier than some of its comparable competitors, but that is likely due to the durability of the motor. It gets great fuel economy and not too noisy. The added feature of the H style handle allows it to be carried by one person or two people. It doesn’t meet CARB requirements, so can’t be shipped to California, but works most everywhere else.

PROS

Clean and green

Extremely lightweight

No noise, mess or maintenance

CONS

Limited usage

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Not self-contained, you have to bring along a portable solar panel

Goal Zero Yeti 150 Solar Generator Kit with Nomad 20 Solar Panel

Another option to consider if you are environmentally conscious is the Yeti 150 Solar Generator Kit. This is a clean unit weighing less than 20 pounds.

It has a sleek, compact design and can easily be set up with the portable solar panel that is included. This unit is designed by a company which specializes in providing power to remote locations all over the world and is an innovator in both generator, inverter and solar panel construction.

Specs:

• Watts: 150 WH (watt hours) to 168 WH (watt hours)

• Outlets: 120V, 20 Amp, 5-20R; 12V DC; 5V USB

• Weight: 19 lbs.

• Dimensions: 11.81 x 14.8 x 17.99 inches

• Starting: open up solar panel and attach

• Fuel: Solar

• Noise rating: No noise

The specs on this unit a somewhat deceptive, because its wattage output is displayed in watt hours. It is equal to most of the lightweight gas generators presented in this review, but doesn’t have the obvious drawbacks associated with using an internal combustion engine to produce power. Because of the innovations of Goal Zero, there are plenty of expansion options for this unit, making it one of the best options available if you intend to go green. The price will actually surprise you, given the solar unit we reviewed earlier.

The Generac 5939 is another commercial grade generator that is built to last and built to take care of high power output needs. Besides its durable construction on heavy-duty, large diameter wheels, which make it able to go over any terrain, the Generac 5939 cranks out 5500 watts of power.

Specs:

• Watts: 5500

• Outlets: (4)-120V, 20 Amp, 5-20R; 120V/240V, 30 Amp, L5-30

• Weight: 193 lbs. (wheels)

• Dimensions: 25 x 26.75 x 28.75 inches

• Starting: pull

• Fuel: 6.7 gallons/10 hours (1.5 hrs/gal)

• Noise rating: Mid (50 dB to 70 dB)

Construction crews and welders will be well pleased with the power and durability available in this unit. This is a commercial generator intended for heavy-duty use. This is not your RVing and arts and crafts fair generator. It is going to be noisy, use a lot of fuel and lifting it in and out of the pickup is going to take a couple of guys.

Our Verdict

Selecting the best generator to fit your needs depends upon what you are using it for as well as your available budget and the value the unit provides. The wide variety of generators we reviewed above provide you with a look at plenty of options for weighing your needs.

Our Other Reviews and Buying Guides

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